Retired Supreme Court Judge, Justice William Atuguba, has criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for condemning the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing the party’s stance as hypocritical and without moral grounds.
In an upcoming interview with JoyNews’ Elton Brobbey, Justice Atuguba argued that the NPP has no credibility in accusing President John Mahama of political interference since the party itself removed top officials under the same constitutional provisions.
“Don’t forget Charlotte Osei and the CHRAJ Commissioner, Madam Lamptey. They were removed under the same grounds—‘stated misbehaviour.’ And who did that? The same people now complaining. At that time, did they question what ‘stated misbehaviour’ meant? Why now, when their appointee is affected, do they suddenly disagree?” he asked.
His remarks come after an Article 146 Committee recommended the removal of Chief Justice Torkornoo, a decision President Mahama acted on. Some NPP members have since vowed to reverse the decision and even threatened similar actions against judicial officers if they return to power—a position Justice Atuguba condemned as dangerous and politically reckless.
“This attitude means they’ll act no matter the performance of the next Chief Justice. For some politicians, it’s not about justice—it’s about holding power at all costs,” he warned.
Justice Atuguba dismissed claims that President Mahama’s move was part of a pre-planned “reset” of the judiciary. According to him, every political party has the right to implement its manifesto once elected.
“When parties contest elections, don’t they present manifestos? If the people vote for them, they are mandated to implement those policies. That’s not premeditated revenge—it’s fulfilling promises endorsed by the people,” he explained.
He also rejected calls to amend the Constitution to redefine “stated misbehaviour,” insisting the provision is already clear and has been applied consistently.
On accusations that the Chief Justice’s removal was political payback, Justice Atuguba was emphatic:
“Payback is not something that can be justified. But if it’s called payback, where is the payback? And if it is, then it’s a justified one.”
His comments underscore the deepening political tension between the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition NPP, as the debate over judicial independence intensifies following Justice Torkornoo’s removal.
source: myjoyonline
